Academy fears for patients

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has slammed the decision by Avastin manufacturer Genentech to cut supply channels that US ophthalmologists use to provide AMD patients with a cheaper alternative to the costly drug Lucentis.

The AAO said this week that the decision would have a 'significant impact' on all AMD patients.

'Our main concern is our patients with macular degeneration, who have come to rely on Avastin in their fight against potential vision loss,' said Charles Pat Wilkinson, president of the Academy.

The Academy also pointed out that Avastin has also been used off-label to treat diabetic retinopathy, macular oedema and various other sight-threatening disorders, and Genentech's decision would have much wider implications than just in the US.